notes from my little studio

Golden Scars

I saw something today that made me think the following: the unmarked skin of innocence is beautiful, but I’ve come to appreciate the strength and depth that comes from the scars of pain endured.

This sketch attempts to visualize this idea… she suffers in silence, yes, but she endures her wounds with quiet nobility, with determination and purpose. and it makes her strong.

Along these lines, Conan O’Brien’s 2011 Dartmouth commencement speech is a worthwhile read. As is this quote from Nietzsche, whose philosophies I often disagree with but not this one:

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”

I’m certainly not trying to romanticize the idea of getting hurt… that would be masochistic. But in life we inevitably will be hurt by others, by events, by ourselves (I think this last one is the hardest to realize; it’s easier to play the victim). And when we are, we can take the burns and turn them into fire.

So to the silent sufferers, may you be rewarded with the discovery of a strength greater than you could have imagined.

HELLO

I'm a freelance illustrator/maker based in DTLA. I also have many geeky interests.

Here you'll find my musings as I navigate through this world that is my illustration design studio, my likes and inspirations in art, design, and beyond, and some helpful tips and useful info I've collected along the way.

Visit my site at mimochai.com or my freelance portfolio at mimi-chao.com. I'm also on Instagram @mimochai.